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Published on: January 28, 2020
Role of GDF-15 and NRG-1 as predictive markers of coronary artery disease
Monika Samra1,2, Indu Arora2, Rajiv Narang3
1Dr. B R Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi, Delhi, 110007, India.
Insights
The GDF15 rs4808793 polymorphism and elevated GDF15 and NRG1 gene expression are significantly linked to coronary artery disease (CAD). These factors may serve as valuable biomarkers for predicting CAD severity and guiding patient management.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Cardiovascular Disease Research
Background:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) presents a significant global health burden, with diagnostic challenges persisting.
- This study investigates the genetic and molecular associations of GDF15 and NRG1 with CAD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between the GDF15 -3148 C/G (rs4808793) polymorphism and CAD.
- To evaluate GDF15 and NRG1 gene and protein expression levels in CAD patients.
- To determine the potential of these markers in predicting CAD severity.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of GDF15 rs4808793 polymorphism using PCR-RFLP in CAD patients and controls.
- Quantification of GDF15 and NRG1 mRNA and protein expression via real-time PCR, Western blot, and ELISA.
Main Results:
- The GDF15 (CG+GG) genotype was significantly associated with CAD (p < 0.0001).
- Elevated GDF15 and NRG1 mRNA and protein levels were observed in CAD patients compared to controls (p < 0.0001).
- Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated strong discriminatory power for both markers, correlating positively with disease severity.
Conclusions:
- The GDF15 rs4808793 polymorphism is significantly associated with CAD.
- Elevated GDF15 and NRG1 expression levels are linked to CAD.
- These findings suggest GDF15 and NRG1 may serve as predictive biomarkers for CAD severity and management.
Background:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a global health challenge, and its timely diagnosis is still an unmet challenge. This study explores the association of GDF15 -3148 C/G (rs4808793) polymorphism with CAD, along with GDF15 and NRG1 expression levels and their potential as predictors of disease severity.
Methods:
Genotyping of the GDF15 rs4808793 polymorphism was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in CAD patients and controls. Gene expression was evaluated by real-time PCR, and protein levels were quantified using Western blot and sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results:
The GDF15 (CG + GG) genotype showed a significant association with CAD (χ² = 15.50, p < 0.0001; OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.36-3.49, p = 0.001). GDF15 mRNA expression was 5.78-fold higher in patients (ΔCt = 0.181 ± 2.0) compared to controls (ΔCt = 2.71 ± 1.7, p < 0.0001). GDF15 protein expression was also significantly elevated in patients (599.4 ± 173.5 pg/ml) than control (312.6 ± 80.28 pg/ml). NRG1 mRNA expression was 7.78-fold higher in patients (ΔCt = 1.90 ± 1.91) compared to controls (ΔCt = 4.47 ± 1.9, p < 0.0001). NRG1 protein levels were also increased in patients (6.52 ± 1.71 ng/ml) compared to controls (3.44 ± 1.16 ng/ml). ROC curve analysis further revealed strong discriminatory power for both markers and a positive correlation with disease severity.
Conclusion:
GDF15 rs4808793 polymorphism and elevated GDF15 and NRG1 expression were significantly associated with CAD and may serve as predictive biomarkers for disease severity and management.
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